Orgasms are perceived as the proverbial icing on the already tasty sexual cake, millions of women feel “bad” or “broken” if they are unable to achieve the coveted climax.

The need to have an orgasm is so bad that faking orgasms is common; most women admit to having done so at some point.

Despite our misguided notion that having an climax is the primary reason to have sex, when it comes to women, it is no sure thing.

Here are five obstacles that can undermine a woman’s capacity to achieve climax.

Illness and/or medication- A wide range of illnesses, including diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cancer, and spinal cord injuries can damage physiologic processes necessary to achieve climax. These illnesses may also affect a woman’s sense of femininity, disrupting her sexual confidence. Medication can also affect the climax phase of sexual response. Blood pressure medications, antihistamines, and certain psychotropic drugs can make it difficult to achieve climax. In particular, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed class of anti-depressants and certain antipsychotics, which raise prolactin levels and are common culprits of climax disorders.

Aging- The normal aging process can also take a toll on a woman’s ability to achieve climax. As we age, we have fewer hormones, especially estrogen. This can affect our neurological and circulatory functioning. As estrogen levels decline, sensations in the clitoris and bosoms are decreased, causing limited blood flow to the private parts. As vascular efficiency decreases, climax difficulties increase.

Cultural messages- Many women have unresolved cultural and religious beliefs that make it difficult to achieve climax. Negative messages about sex often become deeply ingrained, subconsciously shaping the way we allow ourselves to respond during erotic situations. What does it mean for a woman to achieve climax with a partner? It means she owns her sexuality, deserves and can allow her partner to witness her in a vulnerable state. It means she knows her own body and is not dependent on her partner for sexual stimulation and gratification. It means she can comfortably communicate with her partner about her sexual expectations and preferences. A recent article suggested a link between EQ (emotional quotient) and a woman’s capacity to achieve climax. The higher a woman’s EQ (the ability to identify and manage emotions of one’s self and others), the more likely she is to achieve climax.

Discomfort with intimacy- If you are uncomfortable being intimate with your partner, chances are that you might not get an orgasm.

Anger and resentment- Problems experienced between couples outside the bedroom are often played out inside the bedroom as well. For women, sex/ lovemaking starts in the mind, so if you harbour anger or resentment, these negative emotions might prevent you from having an orgasm.

Sex has a lot of benefits on your general health, so, endeavour to avoid these orgasm obstacles and see the results on your skin, and health.